Wage support extension expected, but recalibration sparks debate

Move could ease layoffs, but lower 50% help for worst-hit sectors seen as barely enough by some

Published Mon, Aug 17, 2020 · 09:50 PM

Singapore

EMPLOYERS, labour leaders and economists had expected the Job Support Scheme (JSS) to be extended but they have different views on the length and level of the renewed move to protect jobs from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Echoing the sentiments of many, OCBC's Head of Treasury Research & Strategy Selena Ling said: "The move was expected given the weak state of the Singapore economy, both in terms of intent to help protect jobs and also recalibration since the Singapore economy has exited the 'circuit breaker' restrictions, albeit not fully normalised to pre-Covid conditions."

UOB economist Barnabas Gan said it's important to continue to protect jobs, because they remain an important economic growth driver. "A sustainable rate of…